At A.L. Huber, we take immense pride in bringing new life to buildings with rich histories. That’s why we are thrilled to announce that the Zhou B Art Center, a project we had the honor of renovating, has been awarded Best Adaptive Reuse by Historic Kansas City! This recognition highlights the collaborative effort to preserve the spirit of a historic building while transforming it into a vibrant cultural hub.
A Vision for Renewal
Originally built in 1927 as the Crispus Attucks School, the Zhou B Art Center’s architectural heritage tells a story of the past while looking forward to a new chapter. Our team partnered closely with the owners to honor the original structure’s design while introducing modern features that would make the space functional, inviting, and sustainable for future generations.
Transforming a Landmark
The renovation of Zhou B Art Center presented exciting challenges and opportunities. The project included:
• Preserving Historic Details: Original architectural elements, such as exposed brick, stairwell handrails, stage, and more, were restored to maintain the building’s authenticity.
• Incorporating Modern Amenities: We integrated state-of-the-art systems to enhance functionality and comfort without compromising the building’s historical integrity. Including installing windows with modern performance that replicated the original windows.
• Creating an Artistic Haven: With flexible gallery spaces, event areas, and artist studios, the Zhou B Art Center was designed by BNIM Architecture to inspire creativity and community connection.
A Place for Art and Culture
Today, the Zhou B Art Center stands as a beacon of creativity, hosting art exhibits, workshops, and events that enrich Kansas City’s cultural landscape. This adaptive reuse project not only celebrates the arts but also showcases the importance of preserving our city’s history through innovative construction solutions.
Gratitude and Celebration
This award from Historic Kansas City is a testament to the collaboration between our team, the owners, and the broader community. It exemplifies A.L. Huber’s commitment to blending tradition with innovation—a cornerstone of our construction approach.
We are incredibly honored to have been part of this journey and look forward to continuing our work on projects that celebrate Kansas City’s heritage while paving the way for the future.
Congratulations again to the Zhou B Art Center and all who made this award-winning project possible!
Let us know if you have an upcoming historic renovation project.